For millions of people, knee pain caused by osteoarthritis is more than an inconvenience — it affects mobility, limits everyday activities, and reduces overall quality of life. Until recently, treatment options were limited to physical therapy, pain medications, injections, or surgery.
Today, however, a cutting-edge, non-surgical alternative is now available right here in San Luis Obispo County.
Central Coast Vein & Vascular now offers Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) — a minimally invasive outpatient procedure designed to reduce chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. Although GAE has been performed around the world for nearly a decade, Dr. Kenneth Spearman is currently the only local physician offering this advanced therapy, marking a meaningful step forward for musculoskeletal care on the Central Coast.
What Is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?
GAE is a minimally-invasive procedure that targets one of the key drivers of osteoarthritis-related knee pain: abnormal blood vessels that feed inflammation in the knee joint. Over time, arthritis triggers new vessel growth within the joint. These abnormal vessels release inflammatory cells that damage cartilage and surrounding tissues, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
With GAE, these abnormal vessels are selectively blocked, reducing inflammation and interrupting the cycle of damage. The result? Less pain, improved mobility, and better long-term joint function.
The procedure takes approximately one hour, requires only a tiny incision, and is performed under image-guided technology. Most patients resume normal activities shortly afterward.
How GAE Works
- Chronic wear and tear from osteoarthritis leads to joint damage.
- The knee develops new, abnormal blood vessels that contribute to inflammation.
- These vessels release inflammatory cells, accelerating joint degeneration and increasing pain.
- Light sedation is used to keep you comfortable while Dr. Spearman performs the procedure
- GAE uses tiny particles to block these abnormal vessels while preserving healthy surrounding blood flow.
- Reduced inflammation leads to less pain, stiffness, and swelling, helping protect the joint from further damage.
Who Is a Good Candidate for GAE?
You may be a candidate for GAE if you:
- Have chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis
- Have tried physical therapy, NSAIDs (Advil, Motrin, Naproxen), or other medications without relief
- Have not benefited from injections such as steroids, hyaluronic acid, PRP, or stem cells
- Want to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery
- Are not a surgical candidate due to obesity, diabetes, or other medical conditions
How Effective Is GAE?
Clinical studies show impressive outcomes: 91–94% symptom improvement in patients with moderate to moderately severe osteoarthritis. Results typically last at least two years, with many patients experiencing meaningful, lasting relief.
Why Choose Central Coast Vein & Vascular for GAE?
Dr. Kenneth Spearman and the Central Coast Vein & Vascular team are leaders in minimally-invasive vascular procedures using state-of-the-art imaging technology. With the GAE offering, local patients suffering from chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis now have access to this effective, non-invasive treatment.
Take the Next Step Toward Pain-Free Movement
If knee pain due to osteoarthritis is limiting your mobility and affecting your daily life, it may be time for a new approach. GAE offers hope for those who have tried other treatments without success — or who want to avoid or postpone knee replacement surgery.
GAE is also covered by Medicare, PPO plans, and many other insurances.
Schedule a consultation today to see if GAE is right for you.